Octahedral Cage of the Catalyst (IMAGE)

Technical University of Munich (TUM)

Octahedral Cage of the Catalyst

Caption

Four resorcinol molecules are linked to form a large ring consisting of 16 carbon atoms. Six of these molecules self-assemble in solution to an octahedron-like cage. The electron-rich aromatic ring systems of the resorcinol-blocks appear to stabilize the positive charge of the intermediate state. Similar to the reaction pocket of the cyclase enzyme of the eucalyptus tree, the catalyst thus prevents undesirable side reactions.

Credit

Image: Johannes Richers / TUM

Usage Restrictions

None

License

Licensed content

Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.